One of the most often reported crimes in Westhore is auto burglary and theft. Don't make it easy for thieves to steal your car or your valuables--lock your doors and secure your possessions. If you see suspicious activity report it to local law enforcement or a person of authority and follow these Tampa Police Department Auto Theft/Burglary Prevention Tips to reduce the risk of becoming a victim:

Close your windows and lock your doors.

Do not leave valuables in plain sight in your vehicle. Lock them in your trunk.

Do not leave your keys in the vehicle. Remove the valet key, these are often found in the owner's manual.

Park where your car will be frequently and easily seen.

Park in well-lit areas when possible.

Do not leave your garage door open.

Install and use a car alarm.

Never leave your vehicle unattended while the engine is running. This is State Law.

Trespass Affidavit Program

The Tampa Police Department implemented the Trespass Affidavit Program to assist business and/or property owners control access to their property during non-business hours.

When an owner has identified a recurring trespassing problem at his or her business or property, the owner or legal representative may request this service. The Trespass Affidavit gives any Tampa Police officer the right to act as the owner's representative in warning anyone found in violation of the affidavit to leave, and to arrest violators if they refuse. Click here for more information or to register today!

EMERGENCY ACCESS CARD PROGRAM

Westshore Emergency Access Card Program

In partnership with the Tampa Police Department, Westshore Alliance manages the Emergency Access Card Program, which is designed to assist emergency and rescue crews identify individuals authorized to enter the Westshore Business District following a disaster or emergency. Property owners can register up to three authorized personnel to receive reentry passes that allow them access to their building for the limited purpose of evaluating the safety and security of property before allowing tenants, other occupants, or the general public to return.

As part of Westshore Alliance's effort to improve pedestrian infrastructure in Westshore, sidewalks will be installed on the north side of Laurel St. from Frontage Road to O'Brien St. and on the north side of Columbus Ave. from Himes Ave. to Dale Mabry Hwy. The projects are scheduled to begin this month with plans for completion in May.

Safety improvements will be made on Himes Ave. from Columbus Dr. to Kennedy Blvd., which include adding dedicated bike lanes throughout the corridor, decreasing the speed limit from 40 to 35 mph, and replacing two-way left turn lanes with raised separator islands.

Gov. Rick Scott is directing the Department of Transportation to improve evacuation routes and its fuel capacity to better deal with traffic jams and gas shortages before and after hurricanes. Among the short-term improvements: expanding use of shoulder lanes along major interstates, identifying critical gas stations along evacuation routes and improving fuel service during emergencies. Other immediate fixes, which Scott directed should be completed by June or July, include updating the Florida 511 website to handle higher traffic, installing more cameras and signs on I-75 and expanding fuel reserves for first responders.